June 1, 2023

MEET

THE

AUTHOR

Barnes & Noble in Aliso Viejo will be hosting an instore event for local author Michele Kwasniewski on Saturday, June 3rd from 1-3pm. She will be signing copies of FALLING STAR, the final installment in her award winning, best selling Young Adult series THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART.

Barnes & Noble 26751 Aliso Creek Road Aliso Viejo CA 92656

www.michelekwasniewski.com

What’s Up With...

Council Appoints Rick Loeffler to Fill Vacant Seat

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

After a thorough interview process spanning more than three hours during a special meeting on Tuesday night, May 23, the San Clemente City Council appointed Rick Loeffler, in a 3-1 vote, to the vacant council seat.

Loeffler, a 23-year San Clemente resident and the chair of the city’s Public Safety Committee, fills the spot left open by former Councilmember Gene James, who resigned in late April. He was selected over two other finalists who emerged during the special meeting: Planning Commission member Cameron Cosgrove and 38-year-old candidate Amatangelo Pasciuti.

Mayor Pro Tem Steve Knoblock was the lone dissenting vote.

Councilmember Victor Cabral spearheaded the push to appoint the 70-yearold Loeffler, saying that Loeffler had all the experience and expertise necessary. Cabral referenced Loeffler’s time spent in the community, whether as president of the San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation or simply as an involved San Clemente resident.

The same could be said for Cosgrove, Cabral added.

“I’ve seen both (Loeffler and Cosgrove) in action,” said Cabral. “Unfortunately, despite your experience, Angelo (Pasciuti), I haven’t yet had the opportunity to enjoy your experience and your activity in this community.”

During Loeffler’s time at the podium to speak about himself and answer questions from the council, he emphasized the success the Public Safety Committee has had in recommending various actions and ordinances.

The ordering of FLOCK cameras to snap pictures of license plates, the prohibition of removing shopping carts from store property and possession of multiple catalytic converters all originated from the committee, he noted.

Loeffler also pledged not to run for reelection in 2024, mentioned wanting access to an emergency shelter and spoke about being accessible and nonpartisan.

“I think, as councilmembers, that’s what we need to do, is we need to address the issues that the residents bring forth,” he said. “We’re looking at so many things right now, I can’t think of

too many things that haven’t been brought forth.”

After watching the council’s voting process play out, Loeffler said he was shocked and humbled, but nonetheless committed to working hard and being collaborative.

When deciding whether to apply for the vacant spot, he said he felt he would be able to serve well as a placeholder until 2024, allowing the candidates who will come back to start on an even playing field.

Loeffler called San Clemente a unique place with an incredible community.

“They get involved, they’re concerned, they’re supportive, and I can’t imagine being involved in a City Council anywhere other than San Clemente,” he said.

The meeting began with 21 of the 23 candidates who submitted applications receiving three minutes to speak about themselves in addition to the information they had already given the council.

Joining Loeffler, Cosgrove and Pasciuti were former city officials Don Brown and Tim Brown, and previous council candidates Tyler Boden, George Gregory, Dennis Kamp, Christina Selter, Donna Vidrine, Aaron Washington and Zhen Wu.

Additional candidates included Barton Crandell, Scott Harris, Gary McCaughan, Lois McNicoll, Edward Messinger, Mark Putney, Mikii Rathmann, Gregory Stolrow, Tom Streeter, Sommer Swanke and James Whelan.

In the midst of the first interview round, Boden announced his withdrawal from the appointment process.

After hearing from the applicants, each councilmember was allowed to list up to five top candidates in their opinion, and the number of hopefuls was whittled down to the seven who had received two votes from the council.

“You have made this an excruciating choice for this council, because that was one heck of a set of presentations,” Mayor Chris Duncan said before the first vote.

The group advancing to the second round of interviews included Loeffler, Cosgrove and Pasciuti, along with Kamp, Vidrine, Washington and Wu.

From there, the remaining candidates were sequestered in a “green room,” and one at a time, each person was brought out to answer two questions from the four councilmembers, for a total of eight questions. Candidates were allotted one minute to respond to each question.

Duncan asked what separated the interviewee from the others and what

issues does the interviewee think the city has besides coastal erosion, homelessness and public safety.

Knoblock asked the candidates how they would address disagreements with staff recommendations and about their thoughts on whether national issues such as Critical Race Theory and the Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) framework should be taken into consideration at the local level.

Cabral’s questions were about how the candidates viewed the city’s crime and public safety needs and potential solutions to coastal erosion and preserving San Clemente beaches.

Councilmember Mark Enmeier asked whether it was prudent for national issues to be addressed locally; what, if any, national issues should be addressed locally; and what each candidate would do regarding homelessness.

Following the conclusion of the second round, the councilmembers picked their top two selections.

Duncan chose Loeffler and Pasciuti; Knoblock chose Cosgrove and Washington; Cabral chose Cosgrove and Loeffler; and Enmeier chose Kamp and Pasciuti. Loeffler, Cosgrove and Pasciuti moved on to the final discussion after all received two votes.

Cosgrove, a former Fortune 500 executive with extensive experience in local government, expressed during his interviews that he could use his knowledge of the city’s General Plan and design standards to tackle historic preservation matters and implementing the Housing Element. He also referenced his connections as part of the Save Our Beaches SC group to achieve coastal resiliency.

Regarding homelessness, he favored partnering with other cities to build an emergency shelter outside of city limits while enforcing city ordinances and avoiding the enabling of illegal behavior.

“The sliding of the bluffs (is) an important issue as well,” Cosgrove said of another subject he finds is present. “We don’t really have a clear, transparent

process for residents to follow. The (California) Coastal Commission is somewhat hesitant to permit that, so we’re leaving some of our residents exposed, and I think that is an immediate issue.”

Pasciuti applied to the open seat as a recently retired 21-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where he held numerous leadership positions and served as an instructor.

Among wanting to restore small businesses and reestablish San Clemente as a “cultural hub,” he mentioned upholding a social contract in relation to crime and added that the unhoused population should also have access to mental health services.

His position on additional issues within the city was that all subjects fit within a Venn diagram that touch each other, such as how effective law enforcement helps bring people in to do business in San Clemente and that both of those topics are tied to the number of homeless people in town.

“All of these don’t exist in a vacuum,” said Pasciuti. “We can’t take vacuum-sealed approaches to try to solve each one independently. It takes a collective effort.”

Among the remaining three, Enmeier’s initial choice was Pasciuti, as he highlighted the candidate’s “incredible experience.”

“I think he could bring a different perspective to our council, and I was just very impressed with his presentation,” said Enmeier.

Duncan echoed Enmeier’s sentiment.

“He brings something that we desperately need to the council,” Duncan said.

However, Cabral and Knoblock both found fault in Pasciuti’s lack of previous involvement around town, leading them both to vote against Enmeier’s nomination of Pasciuti.

Knoblock’s top choice was Cosgrove, whom he nominated, but that motion also failed with a 2-2 vote. Duncan and Enmeier were in opposition.

The process appeared in gridlock, as Duncan and Enmeier seemed determined to appoint their favorite candidate. Eventually, Enmeier joined Cabral and Duncan to appoint Loeffler to the council.

Loeffler’s wife, Karen Prescott-Loeffler, was in attendance for the night’s proceedings, and said he was the right man for the job, even among a slew of “amazing candidates.”

“He’s a man of strength and conviction, and he’s committed to the city,” she said. “It will be his No. 1 goal, to do right by the city.”

Loeffler was sworn onto the council at the meeting’s conclusion, reciting the Oath of Office. He’s expected to take his seat on the dais during the council’s next meeting on June 6.

(From left) Rick Loeffler recites the Oath of Office on Tuesday night, May 23, with City Clerk Laura Campagnolo. Photo: C. Jayden Smith

Casa Romantica Celebrates Partial Reopening; OCTA Announces Restart of Passenger Rail Service

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

Passenger railroad service through San Clemente resumed Saturday, May 27, after a geotechnical assessment and final track inspection determined it was safe to do, according to announcements from the Orange County Transportation Authority, as well as Metrolink and Amtrak on Friday, May 26.

The resumption of service came as the City of San Clemente also announced late last week that emergency slope stabilization repair work at Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens was expected to be completed Friday.

A landslide that occurred in the rear of the historic property in April caused debris to fall onto the railroad track, prompting Metrolink and Amtrak to temporarily suspend rail service.

A city contractor worked to remove excess soil and reshape the slope to protect the track and the neighboring residential building from encroaching material.

Five Minors Arrested in Connection to Assault on 3 Marines in Pier Bowl Brawl

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

Five minors have been arrested in connection to the video-recorded altercation at the San Clemente Pier Bowl on Friday, May 26, when three off-duty U.S. Marines were reportedly assaulted by several juveniles and young adults, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

In a social media announcement from OCSD on Tuesday, May 30, the department said four male minors and one female minor were arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon (non-firearm). The five of them were booked into the Orange County Juvenile Hall.

Sgt. Mike Woodroof, an OCSD public information officer, said Wednesday morning, May 31, that investigators believe there are additional suspects to

“More permanent work will be needed to secure the Casa Romantica building, as well as the entire slope in the future,” the city said in its announcement.

Contractors from Metrolink also worked to clear debris from the railroad track area.

Amtrak also announced that its Pacific Surfliner resumed service starting last Friday night with a train from San Diego to San Luis Obispo.

Last Friday, local officials also gathered at Casa Romantica’s courtyard for a ribbon-cutting event, celebrating a grand (partial) reopening of the cultural center.

Executive Director Amy Behrens thanked those in attendance and the community for their help, as the landslide forced the building to close on April 27.

“We’ve received so many wonderful donations from individuals and businesses in our community to beautify the areas across Casa Romantica” said Behrens, adding: “We’ve received a very generous outpouring of support for our emergency landslide campaign, ‘Rebuilding Hope and Preserving History.’ ”

She reiterated that Casa Romanti-

have been involved in the altercation, as the investigation is ongoing.

Authorities have previously estimated there could have been between 10 and 30 minors and young adults involved.

The department, Woodroof also said Wednesday, wouldn’t disclose any identifying information regarding the minors, including their cities of residence and their ages.

At around 9:50 p.m. last Friday, deputies arrived on the scene, where two of the Marines, both men, were found with multiple minor injuries such as an injury to the hand, scrapes to the knees and soreness to the abdomen, chest and head areas, Woodroof had previously stated.

“During the investigation, a third male United States Marine was discovered to have been assaulted during the incident,” OCSD said in the social media post.

The Orange County Fire Authority provided medical treatment to the victims on the scene. The victims refused to be taken to a hospital, OCSD said.

The names of the victims could not be shared at this time, Woodroof said.

ca has experienced significant losses because of the stoppage of general admission and ticket revenue and the cancellation of weddings and other events on the property.

In early May, Casa Romantica announced its efforts to raise $250,000 by the end of June.

Casa Romantica was open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout Memorial Day Weekend, according to Behrens. She

A roughly minute-long video that’s been circulated on social media captured the brawl occurring along the sidewalk and stairway area of the Pier Bowl that leads visitors toward the train tracks and beach’s entrance.

At the start of the recording, one of the Marines is seen starting to walk up the steps and is being followed by a large group of people yelling. A seemingly young individual appears to take a swing to the back of the Marine’s head.

At that point, the Marine turns around and charges toward the young person, which leads to the melee, as many others jump into the altercation, appearing to take swings at the Marine. The group is then recorded circling around the Marine, with some yelling racial epithets and encouraging others to punch and kick the Marine.

As the person recording the incident gets closer to the center of the altercation, the Marine is seen lying on the ground next to the second victim, the fellow Marine, as the two—both in the fetal position—continue get kicked and punched by the group of reported juveniles.

The brawl appears to come to an end

also announced the extension of the Inspired by History art exhibit through Sept. 3 and the beginning of Twilight Tuesdays, during which visitors can experience the early evening at the site from June 6 to Aug. 29.

Information about Metrolink’s service can be found at metrolinktrains. com/service-updates, and information about Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner line can be found at pacificsurfliner.com.

after two individuals, a man and a woman, step in, instructing the group to back away from the victims.

Woodroof on Monday morning, May 29, said he didn’t have the two individuals’ names who stopped the fight.

“The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will continue investigating this matter until all individuals responsible are identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” OCSD said in an initial social media post.

Reiterating the department’s messaging, Woodroof said, “Regardless of whether you’re a juvenile or adult, you’re still responsible to the law.”

“For those who violated the law in this incident, Investigations is going to pursue who they are and at that point go from there,” he continued. “And if charges get pressed, they’ll get pressed.” Woodroof had explained earlier that when a person kicks someone in the head, their leg is considered a deadly weapon at that point.

OCSD has said its deputies have increased patrol checks in and around the pier area “for the public’s continued safety.”

Local officials presented certificates to Casa Romantica Executive Director Amy Behrens on Friday, May 26, as the cultural center held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the partial reopening of the historic property to guests. Photo: C. Jayden Smith

CHIMNEY

RAIN, WIND, AND FIRE...

“The three menaces to any chimney, fireplace, or stove.”

Every year there are over twenty thousand chimney / fireplace related house fires in the US alone. Losses to homes as a result of chimney fires, leaks, and wind damage exceeds one hundred million dollars annually in the US. Additionally, mold, mildew, pollen, dust and flammable creosote are among the hazards that can build up and collect in the flue of a chimney. A thorough inspection, and cleaning if necessary, will dislodge and remove such build-ups.

CHIMNEY SWEEPS, INC., one of the leading chimney repair and maintenance companies, is here to help protect you and your home from losses due to structural damage and chimney fires.

Family owned and operated and having been in business for over 30 years, Chimney Sweeps Inc. is a fully licensed and insured chimney contracting company (License # 976438) and they are certified with the National Chimney Sweep Guild and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

For a limited time, readers of this paper will receive a special discount on a full chimney cleaning and safety inspection package with special attention given to chimney water intrusion points in preparation for the wet & rainy season.

San Clemente High Students Celebrate Completion of Sea Bass Project

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

After first being tasked with raising 42 young white sea bass in mid-April, students from San Clemente High School celebrated the project’s conclusion by releasing the fish into the ocean on May 22.

Nancy Caruso, a marine biologist and founder of environmental stewardship organization Get Inspired, first brought the small fish to teacher Michelle Breslin’s classroom for one purpose: to grow the group of fish to weigh as much as possible before putting them into the ocean.

The students of Breslin’s five International Baccalaureate Marine Science classes accomplished just that, as the fish, which each weighed 0.8 grams on average when delivered on April 11, swelled up to weigh about 9 grams each by the time students gathered at Baby Beach in Dana Point for the release.

On May 22, Caruso told the students that they had completed a project that stood in stark contrast to the norm in the United States, where anyone could pay a nominal fee to obtain a fishing license and continuously take from bodies of water without any recompense.

“There is no one who is putting fish back in the ocean for restoration,” Caruso said in an interview with San Clemente Times on May 24. “There’s no pathway for anyone to put things back in the ocean for restoration. There’s no

license, there is no permit you can get … I do it for a living, so I know.”

San Clemente High School became the 12th school to work with Get Inspired and the Hubbs SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) on raising white sea bass, as part of the organization’s efforts to restore once-thriving species in Orange County’s kelp forest ecosystem.

The students conducted countless tests of their water tank’s pH levels, salinity, temperature and other factors and fed the fish to make sure they were experiencing the best conditions possible for growth.

This project saw the smallest group of fish in terms of relative size at the beginning, which forced Breslin and her classes to adjust as the program progressed.

“We did have some loss, and I was like, ‘Gosh, why are these fish dying?’ ” Breslin said, adding: “The kids and I were observing (that) some were getting pretty big and some were staying kind of small, so we were watching the feeding process and realizing that the little ones just weren’t getting the food.”

Their solution was to grind up the food and distribute in different sizes, and along with limiting the amount of light that came into the tank and other chemical experiments, they were able to halt the number of casualties at eight.

Caruso said there wasn’t a target weight for the fish—just as big as possible.

“We even had some alternative plans, like if they didn’t get big enough, then we could put them over at Orange Coast College because they have a huge aquarium and (we could) grow them a little bit larger in the summer,” said Caruso.

“That didn’t have to happen, thankfully.”

Breslin praised her students for showing a sense of responsibility and urgency in monitoring and changing tank conditions when necessary. The students also displayed genuine interest in taking initiative for their groups and assigning different roles, with some even taking time at lunch to tend to the fish.

She added that as it relates to conservation efforts, the students learned about numerous ways in which human fishing practices, such as using nets, negatively impact the ocean.

“I think they’ll walk away feeling proud and understanding that we play a pivotal role in the health of our oceans (and) especially our coastal ecosystem,” she said.

Close to 30 students were on hand for the May 22 release, as each person had the chance to fill a gallon-sized container with ocean water, go to the coolers holding the fish and walk the 25 yards back to the water to free them in the ocean.

Some were less eager to leave the container than others, Breslin recalled, which required coaxing and a few pushes, but the event was enjoyable.

“It was fun to see all the behaviors and to see everyone’s excitement to see (the fish) being set free; (it) made all the stress of the learning curve really worth it,” she said.

Caruso said she will bring more sea bass to SCHS during the 2023-2024 school year and that she is excited to include the students in more research projects centered around growth techniques.

COMMUNITY MEETINGS

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

Beachside Chat

8-9 a.m. Join San Clemente residents and dignitaries for the weekly Beachside Chat, a spirited, town hall forum on community issues led by a slate of rotating hosts. The chats are held at Dorothy Visser Senior Center, located at 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. All are welcome.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Challenging Cancer

10-11:30 a.m. The Challenging Cancer group is conducting weekly meetings through Zoom video conferences. The meetings are open to caregivers, people who have a compromised immune system, and people dealing with cancer. To join, email donnavigil2@gmail.com or linda_crdv@yahoo.com. heritagesc.org.

SUNDAY, JUNE 4

Meaningful Conversations

3 p.m. Join a different kind of conversation, one which welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all, as the Baha’i Center discusses the spiritual perspectives offered by the Baha’i Teachings on the fundamental oneness of religion. Baha’i Center, 3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente. 949.779.2878. sanclementelsa@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, JUNE 6

City Council

5 p.m. The San Clemente City Council will conduct its regularly scheduled meeting in person at the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting will be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube channel. City Hall, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

San Clemente Toastmasters

7-8:40 p.m. The Toastmasters Club invites people to lose their fear of public speaking and have fun at the same time. Join them in person on the first and third Tuesday of the month at the Baha’i Center, at 3316 Avenida del Presidente. Visitors welcomed. Call or text Laura Yang at 949.547.6558 with questions. 6463. toastmastersclubs.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7

VA Disabled Claims Clinic

2-4 p.m. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 9934 will sponsor a Veterans Affairs Disability Claims Clinic at the Dana Point Community Center the first and third Wednesday of each month. Veterans can walk in and meet with a VFW Service Officer and receive information on how to file a claim for service-related medical issues. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point.

Marine science teacher Michelle Breslin and her students gather at Baby Beach on Monday, May 22, to release roughly three dozen young sea bass that they had raised. Photo: Courtesy of Nancy Caruso

Longtime

Downtown San Clemente Restaurants Close Doors

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

Over Memorial Day weekend, two long-standing Downtown San Clemente restaurants hosted customers for the last time and began the process of closing their doors.

Café Calypso, a traditional gathering place with its open courtyard facing out on Avenida Del Mar, closed after 21 years serving the community, as did Village Mediterranean Rim after 25 years in business.

Chen Yen of Café Calypso told the San Clemente Times that her lease’s termination on May 31, combined with the rising costs of running her business and rent— the latter of which she couldn’t negotiate down—contributed to her decision to close the eatery.

After her family escaped the killing fields of Cambodia during Pol Pot’s reign in the 1970s and landed in Orange County, Yen received an American education and began her professional career working at a donut shop and bakery distribution business run by members of her family.

She stumbled on Café Calypso’s space downtown and took it over in 2002, serving breakfast and lunch to passersby along Del Mar and joining the strong community of business owners in the area.

“They’re pretty much my family,” Yen said of her neighboring business owners.

8 Graduating Seniors Earn Scholarships from Democratic Women’s Group

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

Several local graduating high school seniors received exciting news at last month’s Senior Awards Nights when the Democratic Women of South Orange County (DWSOC) announced the list of recipients for its annual scholarship program.

Sophie Andersen and Talia Penzell of Dana Hills High; Riley Nicole Halsey, Ella Jobst, Kayla McLaughlin and Sofia Sipelis of San Clemente High; and Kate Friess and Anna Villar of San Juan Hills High

“There’s not a day where I pass by anywhere I don’t know. I always (see) somebody, family and friendships that I’ve built throughout the 21 years.”

The courtyard out front that customers have long enjoyed throughout Café Calypso’s lifespan was a major reason for the business’ success, especially in the days before outdoor dining patios became more common in San Clemente.

Inside, however, operations were always troublesome since Yen started using the space that was previously a different café. Being inside a building over 100 years old came with its own problems in addition to having only limited room for kitchen equipment.

“Constantly, it’s (been) a battle for me,” said Yen.

It was time to put an end to those struggles, she said, especially given that Café Calypso’s charm grew ever more banal as visitors to Del Mar can experience al fresco dining at numerous places.

The restaurant’s closure saddens her when she thinks about the time she put into it and her employees, some of whom have worked with her for more than 15 years. But, she said, there is positivity to be found.

Yen has told frequent customers to visit Calypso’s Sunrise Café on El Camino Real, another San Clemente staple she owns, and she’s also been working on finding her former employees other

places to work.

Going forward, she is looking to pour more of herself into Sunrise Café and having less to worry about.

“Twenty-one years in the restaurant business (is) a long time,” Yen said. “It’ll give me some time to focus on myself, put in some traveling time, and enjoy life a bit.”

Just across the street, Nour Tillo, owner of Village Mediterranean Rim, talked about coming to San Clemente in 1998 without having ever spent any time in town.

A business opportunity attracted him as a young man, who was coming off a break from operating health-conscious restaurants in Los Angeles. Tillo borrowed $25,000 to take over the restaurant at 123 Avenida Del Mar.

He spent a few months using the previous menu before starting to steadily build upon it with his own knowledge and background, taking time to travel to Santa Monica weekly and find fresh products.

“We just took a lot of dishes from the old Mediterranean, whether from

northern Africa (like) tagine or any other thing,” said Tillo. “I changed them in a way, modernized it to use all the California products to create a tapas menu on food that people really enjoyed.”

The last two weeks have been emotional for Tillo, he added, as people have come in and shared love and compassion.

“I really didn’t realize that I was able to affect and leave a huge impact on a lot of people in San Clemente,” he said. “People (actually had) tears in their eyes when they came in. That thing, for me, was honestly one of the most important things I’ve done.”

Over the last “phenomenal, wonderful 25 years,” Tillo also enjoyed the creative aspect of his business, but he felt like now was the time to end the current chapter of his life.

At 66 years old, he still is an athlete, as he likes to cycle and do mountain climbing, and he added that he wants to take advantage of his healthy state while still possible.

“I feel I’m leaving on top, actually,” Tillo said. “That, for me, was very important.”

were awarded scholarships from DWSOC.

“Our Scholarship Award Winners for 2023 once again surpassed our expectations of what we envisioned for this scholarship program,” DWSOC President Linda Verraster said in a news release.

“Their leadership in defense of democracy and dedication to volunteer work has already contributed to positive changes in our community.”

With 2023 marking the scholarship program’s sixth year, DWSOC committed to providing eight female students from Dana Hills High, San Clemente High and San Juan Hills High with scholarships of up to $1,000.

At each high school’s Senior Awards Night, hosted on May 17 and May 18, the awardees were notified of their incoming scholarships coming from the group, which pushes for Democratic candidates to get elected in local races.

The recipients were selected for their

demonstrated leadership skills and community involvement, as well as “concern for Democratic issues.” All applicants were required to be registered or pre-registered as Democrats.

Andersen earned the distinction of Dolphin of the Year at Dana Hills, and Sipelis was recognized as San Clemente’s Triton of the Year.

In addition to achieving academic titles such as valedictorian, Advanced Placement Scholar, National Honor Society member, and others, the group of young women will go on to study at notable institutions including the University of California, Berkeley, and the Georgia Institute of Technology.

“We congratulate these amazing young women, applaud them for their many accomplishments, and wish them well as they continue their extraordinary work in the next phase of their education and careers,” DWSOC said in the release.

Members of the Democratic Women of South Orange County group pose with Riley Nicole Halsey, Ella Jobst, Kayla McLaughlin and Sofia Sipelis, San Clemente High graduating seniors who received scholarships from the organization at the school’s Senior Awards Nights last month. Photo: Courtesy of Trudy Podobas

After more than 20 years in business, two Downtown San Clemente restaurants—Café Calypso and Village Mediterranean Rim—closed over Memorial Day weekend. Photos: C. Jayden Smith

Local School Gives Back to Law Enforcement by Establishing Substation

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

In the past few weeks, deputy sheriffs in San Clemente have utilized another location besides the police station to stop, file reports, and rest.

That’s because parents at Our Lady of Fatima Academy in San Clemente recently banded together to provide law enforcement working in town another space to work and relax.

The idea is for deputies to be able to stop at a room in the Catholic school, which serves transitional kindergarteners through eighth-grade students and is located at 105 N. La Esperanza, instead of driving to the police station at City Hall.

Jeff Price, a parent at Our Lady of Fatima, told the San Clemente Times he got involved after first hearing rumblings of the project months back, but he didn’t see a tangible process.

“Then, that Nashville school shooting took place, which struck a chord with myself and my wife because there’s a fair number of similarities between that school and our school,” Price said.

Once he received the go-ahead from school principal Brett Minter and leadership within the Parents of Fatima volunteer organization, he contacted other parents who knew officers at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and California Highway Patrol to set up conversations that taught him how they

CUSD Announces Leading Candidate for New Superintendent

BY COLLIN BREAUX

The Capistrano Unified School District has announced the leading candidate to fill the role of superintendent.

CUSD trustees are considering Dr. Christopher Brown, who is currently the assistant superintendent for Research, Assessment, and School Improvement at the Long Beach Unified School District, according to a news release.

The Board of Trustees had voted, 4-3, to terminate the contract of previous Superintendent Kirsten Vital Brulte for undisclosed reasons during a special

could best support law enforcement.

The parents then pooled resources to create a welcoming environment for officers, stocking the room with a printer, a desk and chairs, ink, a refrigerator, snacks and drinks, a couch and a television.

On May 17, about a dozen officers, including Chief of Police Services Capt. Jay Christian, came to the campus for a small grand opening event.

Price complimented the officers who have used the substation since opening, calling them an “amazing group of people.”

“If you’ve got a bad guy breaking into your house, they’re the ones that you want to show up, because they’ll take them down,” he said. “But they’re also the ones that, if you want to have an officer coming to your school to talk to the first-graders and give them a junior deputy sticker, you’d love it.”

Although Our Lady of Fatima’s current school year is over, with eighth-grade students’ last day being Friday, May 26, the parents will stay involved in ensuring the room remains fully supplied, according to Minter.

He added that the school is working on a schedule for parents to volunteer throughout the summer and the next school year.

Minter said having the presence of

officers on campus was “priceless” in that the personnel are building a connection with students. Additionally, the unpredictable nature of when they’ll arrive to the substation helps ward off would-be attackers.

“There was one time a couple days ago that (no officers were there), and all of a sudden, we have three,” said Minter. “They all stop in, sit down for a little bit, or do a report (and) then they grab a beverage and leave. You just don’t know when they are going to show up, (and that’s) a benefit for us, to help keep us safe.”

Price also called the substation a “real win-win situation.”

Given that the service of others is part

of the school’s mission statement, which is painted near the steps up to the front entrance, Price called the parents’ efforts a great opportunity to live out their mission, especially for those tasked with protecting the community.

Minter added that the substation is a way to show gratitude to the deputies.

“We talk a lot about service with our students (and) with our community about giving back, and we’ve given back to all sorts of organizations around San Clemente,” said Minter. “We’ve got to give back to our (sheriff’s deputies). They’re our first responders; they do a lot, they keep our community safe, and they work tirelessly, so anything that we can do to help them, (we’ll do).”

meeting last December. Clark Hampton has been serving as interim superintendent since then.

Closed-door meetings have recently been held to interview and review candidates.

CUSD trustees were scheduled to visit with LBUSD staff members familiar with Brown on Tuesday, May 30, as part of the superintendent selection process, the district said in the news release.

“Dr. Brown emerged as the top-ranked candidate for the CUSD superintendency after an extensive and competitive recruitment process overseen by Trustees with guidance from Dr. Joseph M. Farley and Dr. Suzette Lovely, consultants with Education Support Services Group, both former superintendents,” the district said in the release.

Brown’s professional experience includes time as a high school director,

principal, coordinator, dean, science teacher, and athletic coach.

“His principalship was at the highly acclaimed California Academy of Math and Science, a multidistrict supported magnet school on the campus of California State University, Dominguez Hills,” the district said. Brown’s role as new CUSD superintendent is expected to be formally approved

during an upcoming regular Board of Trustees meeting if the visit with LBUSD staff is deemed successful.

Orange County Deputy Sheriffs pose with students and administrators at Our Lady of Fatima Academy in San Clemente following the opening of a substation on campus. Photo: Courtesy of Jeff Price

Long Beach Unified School District’s Dr. Christopher Brown will likely become the new Capistrano Unified School District superintendent pending the approval of CUSD trustees. Photo: File

PUBLISHER’S LETTER: By Norb Garrett, Picket Fence Media Founder/CEO

A Perfect 10

Let the celebrations begin!

Picket Fence Media has won 10 coveted California Journalism Awards from the California News Publishers Association (CNPA) for our editorial efforts in 2022, including our first-ever “General Excellence” award in print for Dana Point Times

To be recognized as the best newspaper in California at its circulation level is an amazing accomplishment, and fitting that this is our 15th anniversary publishing the DP Times

I’m also super proud of the diversity of awards we won for writing, photography, design and digital. Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh led the charge with three individual awards, Shawn Raymundo won two, and Breeana Greenberg, Collin Breaux and Jayden Smith each won one. Huge congrats also go to freelance photographer Alan Gibby, who earned a well-deserved award for sports photography.

Congrats, too, to the rest of our editorial team who were equally instrumental in helping us earn these awards: Copy Editor Randy Youngman, Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex and Special Projects Art Director Jasmine Smith. Here’s a complete list of our winning entries:

2022 CNPA CALIFORNIA JOURNALISM AWARDS

PRINT

GENERAL EXCELLENCE

First Place, Dana Point Times (Weeklies 4.3K-11K)

ENTERPRISE NEWS STORY OR SERIES

First Place, Zach Cavanagh—”Summer of Golf,” San Clemente Times (Weeklies 11K-25K)

SPORTS FEATURE STORY

Third Place, Zach Cavanagh—”Last Triton Standing,” SC Times (Weeklies 11k-25K)

Letters to The Editor

MORE OF THE SAME

GREG STOLROW, San Clemente

It is interesting to see how after receiving 23 applicants for the vacant San

SPORTS ACTION PHOTO

Second Place, Zach Cavanagh—SCHS Baseball, SC Times (Weeklies 11K-25K)

Third Place, Alan Gibby—DHHS Football, DP Times (Weeklies 4.3K-11K)

PHOTO STORY/ESSAY

Third Place, Shawn Raymundo—Office Chair Races, SC Times (Weeklies 11K+)

COVERAGE OF THE ENVIRONMENT

Third Place, C. Jayden Smith & Collin Breaux—”Contending with Coastal Erosion,” SC Times (Weeklies 11k-25K)

Clemente City Council spot, we ended up with someone who was part of the establishment.

I am sure Rick Loeffler is a fine man, but do we really need another insider on the City Council? As a nation, we continue to elect folks that are entrenched in or part of the “system.”

When will we realize that there are many qualified and capable people that do not speak the language of politics or

DIGITAL

HOME PAGE LAYOUT

First Place, San Clemente Times (Monthly Unique Visitors < 100K)

NEWS PHOTO

First Place, Shawn Raymundo—Kurt Reinhold Protest, SC Times (Monthly Unique Visitors < 100K)

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT COVERAGE

Second Place, Breeana Greenberg—“Music Preserves Wraps Up Music History Program,” DP Times (Monthly Unique Visitors < 100K)

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 sanclementetimes.com

HOW TO REACH US

MANAGING EDITOR

Shawn Raymundo • 949.388.7700, x113 sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com

SPORTS

Zach Cavanagh • 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com

ADVERTISING

Lauralyn Loynes • 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

DISTRIBUTION

Racks, Driveways, Subscriptions Inna Cazares • 949.388.7700, x111 icazares@picketfencemedia.com

GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett • 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

CEO/FOUNDER

Norb Garrett

EDITORIAL

Managing Editor

Shawn Raymundo

City Reporter, SC Times

C. Jayden Smith

City Reporter, DP Times

Breeana Greenberg

City Editor, Capo Dispatch

Collin Breaux

Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh

Digital Producer

Evan Lancaster

Columnists

Tom Blake

Special Projects Editor

Andrea PapagianisCamacho

Copy Editor

Randy Youngman

ADVERTISING

Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes

(SC + DP)

Advertising Sales

Debra Wells (CD)

ART + DESIGN

Group Art Director

Marc Hostetter

Special Projects Art Director Jasmine Smith

OPERATIONS

General Manager

Alyssa Garrett

Group Operations & Production Coordinator

Inna Cazares

Local Distribution

Tim Trent

FINANCE

Accounting & Finance Manager

Tricia Zines

CONTRIBUTORS

Megan Bianco, Jake Howard

government? I might also suggest that we take a long look at the frequency of legislative meetings at all levels of government.

Does a City Council need to meet every two weeks? Take a page from two states that are doing it right on many fronts, Texas and Tennessee. Both have part-time legislative bodies.

Imagine that, a government that only meets a few times a year. Don’t believe me; look it up.

San Clemente Times, Vol. 18, Issue 21. The SC Times (sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point Times (danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. San Clemente Times is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at San Clemente, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: San Clemente Times, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624.

NORB GARRETT CEO & FOUNDER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

THURSDAY | 01

TABLE TENNIS THURSDAYS

10 a.m.-noon. Intermediate to advanced players who are at least 45 years old are invited to play table tennis at the Shorecliffs Terrace Mobile Home Park every Thursday for free. Shorecliffs Terrace, 3000 Calle Nuevo, San Clemente. 949.481.2275.

FRIDAY | 02

YOUTH PROGRAMMING AT THE NOBLE PATH FOUNDATION

4:30 p.m. The Noble Path Foundation hosts events multiple times a week to get youth and young adults out and about and participating in safe, productive activities. There will be an improv lesson from 4:30-5:30 p.m., and TGIF Night starting at 6 p.m.—the theme being video games on numerous consoles. The Noble Path Foundation, 420 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.234.7259. thenoblepathfoundation.org.

LIVE THEATER AT CABRILLO PLAYHOUSE

7:30 p.m. Enjoy live theater right in the heart of San Clemente with the performance of Puffs, Or: Seven Increasingly Weird Years at a Certain School of Magic Showings run through June 25. Tickets are $28. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. cabrilloplayhouse.org.

SATURDAY | 03

SAN ONOFRE BACKCOUNTRY HIKE

8-11 a.m. Join California State Parks

Naturalist Heather Rice to experience the local state park. Meet at the City of San Clemente’s dog park off Avenida La Pata

TUESDAY | 06: LA BAMBA FILM SCREENING

8-10 p.m. Sit under the stars and on the lawn of Casa Romantica’s Courtyard while enjoying candy, popcorn and wine during a feature film screening. La Bamba is a biographical drama chronicling the life and music career of Mexican-American rock star Ritchie Valens. Guests must bring their own chairs and blankets. Tickets are $5-$10. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

to participate in this 4-mile hike. Baron Von Willard Memorial Dog Park, 301 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. cryssie. moreno@parks.ca.gov.

AFFORDABLE PET VACCINE CLINIC

10-11:30 a.m. Pets Plus San Clemente offers low-cost vaccinations for all dogs and cats every month, provided by Vet Care. Microchips, physical exams, diagnostic testing and more services will be available on-site. Pets Plus, 416 E Avenida Pico, San Clemente. vetcarepetclinic.org.

VILLAGE ART FAIRE

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hosted by the San Clemente Downtown Business Association on the lawn of the San Clemente Library, the Village Art Faire offers a variety of work, including photography, fine art, jewelry, ceramics, fused glass, home decor, botanicals, textile art, and more. Visitors can expect to find many of their favorite artists, as well as some new faces. San Clemente Library, 242 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.218.5378. info@scdba.org. scdba.org.

MODERN MAKERS MART

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Join Modern Makers Mart pop-up in the Dana Point Harbor, where 35 makers and small businesses will sell their handcrafted goods. The free event also features live music and a craft area. Dana Point Harbor, 34571 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. modernmakersmart.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT OC TAVERN

7 p.m. Bazerk, Dark Alley Dogs, The Pegs, and STARZERO will perform. Listen to live music at this south San Clemente water-

ing hole. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $10. OC Tavern Grill and Sports Bar, 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.542.8877. universe.com.

GEEKS WHO DRINK TRIVIA NIGHT

7-9 p.m. Left Coast Brewing presents trivia modeled after pub quizzes in Ireland and the United Kingdom, covering everything from Hungary to the Hunger Games. Teams can include up to six people. Winning teams earn bar cash and other prizes. Left Coast Tasting Room, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. eventvesta.com.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GHOST WALK

8 p.m. Learn about the eerie history of San Juan Capistrano as you walk through the downtown area and near Mission San Juan Capistrano. The walk is hosted by Haunted Orange County. Attendees are asked to meet at the visitor’s information booth near the train tracks. 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 866.446.7803. hauntedoc.com.

CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE

8 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Singer-songwriter Judy Collins will perform. Tickets are $58. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

SUNDAY | 04

SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection

of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers along Avenida Del Mar. 949 361 8200. san-clemente.org.

D. YODER FAMILY SUNDAYS AT CASA ROMANTICA

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy performances from student musicians, presented by the Community Outreach Alliance. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

MONDAY | 05

COUNTRY NIGHT AT H.H. COTTON’S

6 p.m. This popular downtown restaurant offers a night full of country music and line dancing for all ages. Beginners will have the floor from 6-7 p.m., followed by advanced dancers from 7:30-8:30 p.m. The floor will be open to all from 8:30-10 p.m. H.H. Cotton’s, 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.945.6616. hhcottons.com.

TUESDAY | 06

SHARKS AFTER DARK

6-9 p.m. Join the Ocean Institute to learn more about the ocean’s apex predators, bioluminescence and more every Tuesday this summer, from June through August. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. oceaninstitute.org.

WEDNESDAY | 07

BINGO AT THE SENIOR CENTER

1:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, the Dorothy Visser Senior Center will host Bingo. The center will begin selling cards at 1 p.m., with the game starting promptly at 1:30. The buy-in is $12 for 10 games with four cards and a special pick-your-number game. For more information, contact the center at 949.498.3322. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente.

OCEAN INSTITUTE DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES: LANCE LEE DAVIS

6 p.m. The Ocean Institute’s Distinguished Speaker Series, presented by the Nicholas Endowment, brings innovations, real-world research, exotic experiences and discoveries to the surface through presentations from an ocean of experts. World-record professional performance freediver Lance Lee Davis will share his experience as an instructor, performer and competitor. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. oceaninstitute.org.

Photo: File/Keaton Larson

CYPRUS COVE

Conrad Realtors Inc

GUEST OPINION | Eat my Words by Cheryl Pruett

MAKE BREAKFAST A MINI VACATION

Every restaurant meal is a mini vacation. Kick off summer with a neighborhood breakfast road trip. Since Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of the season, it’s time to begin an eatery vacay.

Early birds rise and shine. Those less inclined to get up and go at the crack of dawn can still shake their night owl feathers to order the most important meal of the day.

Breakfast doesn’t always mean eggs. There are so many breakfast opportunities in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, a hungry person can fill their summer with many morning meals.

A breakfast can stand alone as a mini-vacay moment or be paired with a walk, a beach outing or even a pre-meal before a cruise to Catalina from Dana Point Harbor.

DANA POINT

Turk’s at Dana Point Harbor continues to draw locals and visitors as much for the legacy of its body builder-actor founder as it does the bar’s atmosphere and food. It’s a bit of a trip to a nostalgic time.

The white board menu with handwritten items is your starting point. Turk’s is known for its spicy Bloody Marys. Chili cheese omelet is among its staples. Check for daily specials.

34683 Golden Lantern St. 949.496.9028. turksdpharbor.com.

RJ’s Café offers a menu so packed that it will make you hungry simply reading it. If bicycling in the harbor area, here’s a good stopping point. RJ Heavenly Potatoes is a meal in itself, featuring potatoes, two types of cheese, mushrooms, onions and spinach.

25001 Dana Point Harbor Dr. 949.218.5757. rjscafe.com.

SAN CLEMENTE

Alohana Acai Bowls & Coffee provides refreshing, healthy and quick options to eat your breakfast in or grab to-go on the way to the beach or other summer activities.

Made fresh to order, the most popu-

lar bowl is T-Street with acai, granola, banana, strawberries, blueberries, coconut shavings and honey. A Sunrise smoothie is another simple option with pitaya (dragon fruit), mango and orange juice. Addons and gluten-free options are available.

360 Camino de Estrella. 949.388.4015; 111 W. Avenida Palizada. 949.573.1129. alohanaacaioc.com.

Café Mimosa is one of the multiple breakfast options on a walk downtown. The name is a hint of what’s to come, given there are about 12 flavors of mimosas available.

On a visit, the crème brulee French toast provides a taste adventure using ciabatta bread, custard, and crème anglaise. Or try an egg white frittata with veggies and Swiss cheese, topped with Romesco sauce.

243 Avenida Del Mar. 949.481.6780. cafemimosasc.com.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Mollies is like a visit home. Known for oversized pancakes, why not try the bacon pancakes? Two treats in one with bacon mixed into the batter for a different pancake treat.

The menu is jam-packed with homestyle breakfasts for this nearby morning wake-up meal.

32033 Camino Capistrano. 949.881.6015. molliessanjuan.com.

JD Flannel Donuts and Coffee provides a reason to make donuts a breakfast meal. After all, donuts set a vacation mood. So, if donuts are your breakfast go-to, be prepared for more than the traditional donut fare.

The menu includes a taste bud vacation with such flavors as blueberry-lemon, brown butter sea salt, and maple bacon. Map out your donut journey: apple fritters, cake donuts, and a variety of glazes. Donut flavors and creations change monthly, so check what’s in store.

31878 Del Obispo St. 949.218.4483. jdflannel.com.

Cheryl Pruett is an award-winning journalist and editor, having covered Orange County city and county topics to the food scene for Orange County Register, Patch.com and local magazines. She has called Dana Point/Capistrano Beach home for more than 30 years. SC

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

Eleven-month-old Cowboy is a real sweetheart of a cat. He enjoys the company of cats and people alike, but his true favorite pastime is birdwatching by a sunny window. Through the attentions of caring shelter volunteers, Cowboy has blossomed into a loving cat, and he would continue to thrive in a home that he could finally call his own.

If you are interested in adopting Cowboy, please visit petprojectfoundation.org/adoptions/ to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@ scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. SC

FROM THE ARCHIVES When

San Clemente was founded in 1928, cowboys from the nearby ranchos were probably a common sight. The “49er Daze” tradition seems to have continued, at least occasionally. After Casino San Clemente opened in 1937, for example, 49er Daze celebrations were a regular event. One wonders why the 1849 Gold Rush was celebrated locally, since San Clemente is more than 400 miles to the south. But such events have been held throughout the state ever since. This photo can be purchased from the San Clemente Historical Society at sanclementehistoricalsociety.org.

Every week, the San Clemente Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for credit as well as the date and location of the photo to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com

BY MYLES MELLOR

WEEK’S SOLUTION:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult.

Sudoku- medium- by Myles Mellor 28 7 3 6 7 2 9

8 9 1 3

54 9

8 3 5 1 6 9 35

5 1 2

EAT MY WORDS CHERYL PRUETT

Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente Historical Society

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

San Clemente Honors Sacrifice of Servicemembers on Memorial Day

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

An overcast sky didn’t dispirit the town of San Clemente, well known for its close ties to the military community, from coming out to honor fallen servicemembers during a Memorial Day event on Monday morning, May 29.

The observance featured performances of “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America” by students from the St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Choral Department, as well as the traditional Armed Forces recognition, presentation of flowers and wreaths from local organizations, and reading out the names of San Clemente veterans who had passed away in the past year.

Those honored included World War II veterans Robert Harhay, Jim Lusk, Al Kriepl, and Jim Reiss; community fixture Hank Snyder; and Richard “Rod” Rodriguez, founder of Rod’s Tree Service. Lt. Col. Christopher Kim, commanding officer of the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, served as the day’s keynote speaker.

Kim reminded the hundreds of people in attendance that those who lost their lives fighting for the United States were more than names or memories, but souls who walk San Clemente’s streets.

“You will feel their spirits amongst you,” he said. “They stand on those bluffs overlooking Trestles on those late summer days, waiting for endless sets. They sit next to you in bars and restaurants here in San Clemente every Friday evening, thirsting for that cool beer.”

Despite the upcoming days when families’ memories of their deceased loved ones will begin to fade, Kim said, the people who are still living have the obligation to live for those who are not.

He spoke of President Abraham Lincoln’s words during the Gettysburg Address, in which citizens must “be dedicated” to continue the work that was advanced by fallen servicemembers.

Kim added that the people who enlist at an early age know what they’re signing up for and the inherent risks, as they are following the path of those who came before them, of which some never lived to experience an honorable discharge.

“Our country’s existence is, therefore, guaranteed,” he said. “It is on firm footing when we resolve to place service and sacrifice above all else, grounded in

the blood and tears of our fallen heroes. Only then will the lives of those we lost be worth it.”

He also briefly touched on the story of the 13 servicemembers who were killed in the attack on the Kabul airport in Afghanistan in August 2021, of which 11 were Marines from Camp Pendleton’s 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines regiment.

Additionally, Kim spoke about Navy Cross recipient and Lance Cpl. Donald Hogan, who sacrificed himself to save the others in his squad on Aug. 26, 2009. Hogan’s parents, Carla and Jim, are San Clemente residents.

Hogan was on patrol when he saw an explosive device nearby that was set to detonate.

“He pushed the Marines around him to the ground, and while facing the bomb, he yelled for everyone to take cover,” said Kim. “That bomb exploded, and Lance Cpl. Donald Hogan was mortally wounded, yet he saved the dozen Marines around him because their lives mattered more to him than his own.”

“We honor and remember our fallen today, but we cherish and embrace the living, for they bear witness to the extraordinary,” Kim said in closing.

Mayor Chris Duncan presented Kim with a certificate of recognition for the lieutenant colonel’s presentation and service to the country.

Duncan also spoke, asking the audience to take a moment and reflect on

what servicemembers of all the varying branches, active, retired, and deceased, have done in putting everything in their lives to the side for the greater good.

He added that San Clemente, as a military town, should especially be able to recognize the importance of Memorial Day, and that residents should endeavor to speak with veterans and hear their stories.

“Let us never forget the ultimate sacrifices made by these courageous men and women, so that you and I can enjoy the freedoms of the United States of America,” Duncan said. “Let us strive to live up to the example that these men and women have set … by their selfless sacrifice as patriots, each and every day.” SC

The City of San Clemente gathers with local dignitaries and residents on the Community Center lawn to remember the servicemembers who gave their lives fighting for the nation during a Memorial Day ceremony on Monday, May 29. Photos: C. Jayden Smith

Golden Run

SCHS junior foursome wins first-ever CIF State 4x800-meter relay

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

The San Clemente boys track and field team put its mark on CIF State Championship history on Saturday, May 27, at Buchanan High School in Clovis.

In the first running of the 4x800-meter relay in CIF State Championship history, four Triton juniors—Brett Ephraim, Jackson Brownell, Pierce Clark and Taj Clark—jumped ahead to win the event’s inaugural state title by just over a half-second.

Ephraim put the Tritons in second after the first leg trailing Long Beach Wilson by 0.7 seconds. Brownell pushed San Clemente into a tie with host Buchanan after the second leg. Pierce

Clark then sent the Tritons ahead of second-place Menlo by 0.89 seconds, and Taj Clark sealed the state championship by staying ahead of Menlo by a margin of 0.51 seconds.

The San Clemente foursome clocked a time of 7:38.59, which was the fastest time in California this season in the event at any meet or invitational. San Clemente ran a time of 7:45.93 at CIF-SS Masters on May 20 to qualify for the state meet. The Tritons ran the event only two other times this season on March 4 at the Earl Engman Relays, a first-place finish, and on April 8 at the Arcadia Invitational.

The 4x800-meter relay was the first addition to the CIF State program since girls pole vault in 1995.

In addition to the first-place gold as part of the Triton relay team, Taj Clark also reached the podium as an individual in the 800-meter run. Clark was in sixth at the 400-meter mark and kept pace to finish in fourth place with a time of 1:53.41.

In the preliminaries on Friday, May 26, the junior finished eighth at 1:53.89. Clark ran a time of 1:52.84 in a second-place finish at the CIF-SS Masters meet to qualify for state, and his personal best came this season in a win at the South Coast League Finals with a time of

CLASSIFIEDS

SUBMIT

GARAGE SALES

COMMUNITY YARD SALE – SATURDAY

JUNE 24TH

A Community Yard Sale will be held @El Nido Mobile Estates located at 27703 Ortega Highway on Saturday June 24th from 9am-1pm in the Clubhouse parking area near the top of the park. Please follow the signs to the sale area. Due to park rules, PLEASE …NO EARLY SALES! There will be 14+ sellers so a great variety of items will be available for your consideration. Parking will be limited to selected areas so please follow directions and the “NO Parking” signs as you arrive in order to keep the streets from being blocked. Your patience and cooperation is appreciated by all residents & visitors.

1:52.60.

In other events, Juan Chantaca finished out his San Clemente career in the 3,200 meters. The UC Irvine-bound senior finished in 17th with a time of 9:10.89. Chantaca set a personal record at the CIF-SS Masters meet to qualify for state with a mark of 9:01.86.

Also, senior Griffin Schwab competed in the finals for the high jump, but he failed to record a cleared attempt. In the preliminary round, Schwab cleared a height of 6 feet, 5 inches, which matched his mark at CIF-SS Masters. Schwab hit his personal record of 6 feet, 6 inches three times this season in the

OBITUARY Tim Pert

On 05/21/2023 Tim Pert, loving husband, son, brother, uncle and cherished friend peacefully passed away at the age of 63 from pancreatic cancer. Tim was born on January 30, 1960 in Huntsville, AL, to Ed and Raima (Geare) Pert. The Perts returned to Raima’s hometown of Phoenix shortly thereafter until the family moved to San Clemente in 1971 where Tim attended Our Lady of Fatima School and San Clemente High School, Class of ’78. After graduating from UCSB in 1982, the majority of Tim’s working career was spent selling literature books to school districts throughout Central and Southern California.

In 1996, he married Pam Wysocki with whom he shared a happy and loving marriage of 26 years. Tim had a passion for God, his marriage, family and friends, music, and fly fishing the beautiful Eastern Sierra lakes, particularly Crowley Lake. Tim had a lifelong love of the ocean and spent many summers as a youth in San Clemente’s Jr. Lifeguard program, being named 1974 Lifeguard of the Year and the first of two youngsters to attain the highest rank of “Captain”. He had a daily ritual of driving by T Street Beach to check the waves and give thanks for living in this beautiful location.

Tim had the gift of hospitality and made everyone feel at ease in his presence. He was known for his joyous smile, infectious laugh, his attentiveness to others and the thoughtful connections he made.

Tim was preceded in death by his father, Ed Pert, sister Anne Palmer and niece Emma Pert. He will be greatly missed by the love of his life, wife Pam, his mother Raima, his siblings Mike (Sharyn) Pert, Peggy (Randy) Griffin, Molly Pert Allen, Ed (Heather) Pert, Mimi (Patrick Griffin), John (Kirsten) Pert, Bev (David) Shaw, and brother-in-law Rob Palmer in addition to extended family and friends. He was particularly proud of, and deeply loved, his numerous nieces and nephews. He encouraged them to always be forgiving, stay close to Jesus and to live a happy life.

For details on funeral services and memorial donations, please visit www.Oconnormortuary.com

CIF-SS Division 1 Finals, in a dual meet at Dana Hills and at his home Triton Invitational.

San Clemente’s 4x800-meter relay team of Brett Ephraim, Jackson Brownell, Pierce Clark and Taj Clark won the state title in the event’s inaugural run at the CIF State Championships. Photo Courtesy of Jimmy Su Photography.

PUBLIC NOTICES

TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA, RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: PROPOSED CHANGES TO CHAPTER 13.24 OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE SEWER (WASTEWATER) RATES OF THE CITY.

A Public Hearing to consider a proposal to amend the City of San Clemente Municipal Code Section 13.24 regarding proposed rate modification for the Sewer Utility. The proposed changes were recommended through the completion of a Cost-of-Service Study conducted by Raftelis Financial Consultants. Information relating to this item can be obtained by calling Utility Billing at 949-361-8315 and information may be viewed on the City’s website at https://www. san-clemente.org/sewerratestudy.

If you challenge this rate modification in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Clemente at, or prior to, the public hearing.

To allow staff adequate time to confirm software compatibility, individuals wishing to utilize electronic visual aids to supplement their oral presentations at the meeting, must submit the electronic files to the City Clerk by no later than 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Only compatible electronic formats will be permitted to be used on City audio/visual computer equipment. Staff makes no guarantee that such material will be compatible, but will use its best efforts to accommodate the request.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that said Public Hearing will be conducted by the San Clemente City Council on Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at, 910 Calle Negocio, 2nd Floor, San Clemente, California. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearing or to provide written communication to the City Council to express their opinion for or against the project.

For further details, please call or visit the Finance & Administrative Services Department at the above phone number and website where information is on file and available for public inspection.

LAURA CAMPAGNOLO

City Clerk and Ex-Officio Clerk of the Council

PUBLIC NOTICE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

20236661918

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: GRACE FOR CHANGE BIBLICAL COUNSELING

2207 VIA IRIS

SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673

Full Name of Registrant(s):

NICHOLAS KALENA

2207 VIA IRIS

SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673

This business is conducted by an Individual.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: n/a

/s/NICHOLAS KALENA

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 04/26/2023.

Published in: San Clemente Times May 11, 18, 25, June 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

Loan No.: Pichika TS no. 2023-10631 APN: 690282-06 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE UNDER DEED OF TRUST YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 10/8/2021, UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that on 6/14/2023, at 1:30 PM of said day, At the North front entrance to the County Courthouse at 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701, Ashwood TD Services LLC, a California Limited Liability Company, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to the power of sale conferred in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Ramaiah Pichika and Jayalakshmi Pichika, Husband and Wife as Joint Tenants recorded on 10/15/2021 in Book n/a of Official Records of ORANGE County, at page n/a, Recorder’s Instrument No. 2021000634130, by reason of a breach or default in payment or performance of the obligations secured thereby, including that breach or default, Notice of which was recorded 2/9/2023 as Recorder’s Instrument No. 2023000028868, in Book n/a, at page n/a, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, lawful money of the United States, evidenced by a Cashier’s Check drawn on a state or national bank, or the equivalent thereof drawn on any other financial institution specified in section 5102 of the California Financial Code, authorized to do business in the State of California, ALL PAYABLE AT THE TIME OF SALE, all right, title and interest held by it as Trustee, in that real property situated in said County and State, described as follows: Lot 78, Tract 8597, per Map, Book 344, Pages 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 of Miscellaneous Maps. The street address or other common designation of the real property hereinabove described is purported to be: 203 Calle Del Juego, San Clemente, CA 92672. The undersigned disclaims all liability for any incorrectness in said street address or other common designation. Said sale will be made without warranty, express or implied regarding title, possession, or other encumbrances, to satisfy the unpaid obligations secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest and other sums as provided therein; plus advances, if any, thereunder and interest thereon; and plus fees, charges, and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of said obligations at the time of initial publication of this Notice is $297,935.62. In the event that the deed of trust described in this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is secured by real property containing from one to four single-family residences, the following notices are provided pursuant to the provisions of Civil Code section 2924f: NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may

hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee’s sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 916-939-0772 or visit this internet website www.nationwideposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case 202310631. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not be immediately reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 916-939-0772, or visit this internet website www.nationwideposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case 2023-10631 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid, by remitting the funds and affidavit or declaration described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code, so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase.

Dated: May 18, 2023 Ashwood TD Services LLC, a California Limited Liability Company Christopher Loria, Trustee’s Sale Officer 231 E. Alessandro Blvd., Ste. 6A-693, Riverside, CA 92508 Tel.: (951) 215-0069 Fax: (805) 323-9054 Trustee’s Sale Information: (916) 939-0772 or www.nationwideposting. com NPP0435354 To: SAN CLEMENTE TIMES 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023, 06/08/2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20236662484

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: ORIGINAL SPROUT

120 CALLE IGLESIA, UNIT B SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672

Full Name of Registrant(s):

KAHNALYTICS, INC

120 CALLE IGLESIA, UNIT B SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672

This business is conducted by a CA Corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/18/2017

KAHNALYTICS, INC./s/DAVID NEIBERT, DAVID NEIBERT, PRESIDENT

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 05/04/2023.

Published in: San Clemente Times May 18, 25, June 1, 8, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case No. 23FL000308

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Sophia Eva Stebbins and David Bonadurer Moore on behalf of Boston Stebbins, a minor, filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

Present Name

Boston Stebbins

Proposed Name

Boston McKinney Moore

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing

Date: 06/07/2023 Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: L74.

Room: Remote Appearance. The address of the court is Superior Court of California, County of Orange, Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868-3205. (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court’s website. To find your court’s website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/ find-my-court.htm.)

A copy of this Order to Show Cause must be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times

Date: 04/13/2023

JUDGE Julie A Palafox, Judge of the Superior Court

Published: San Clemente Times, May 11, 18, 25, Jun 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case No. 30-2023-01324363

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner LUCIANA LEMES CALZADILLA filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

Present Name

LUCIANA LEMES CALZADILLA

Proposed Name

LUCIANA LEMES COSTA MIOT

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing

Date: 07/06/2023

Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: D100

Room: Remote Appearance. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center

PUBLIC NOTICES

TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM

Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court’s website. To find your court’s website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/ find-my-court.htm.)

A copy of this Order to Show Cause must be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Date: 05/10/2023

JUDGE LAYNE H. MELZER, Judge of the Superior Court

Published: San Clemente Times, May 25, June 1, 8, 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

Section 00100

Notice Inviting Bids

FY 2024 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Project No. 14xxx

1. Notice. Public notice is hereby given that the City of San Clemente (“City”) will receive sealed bids for the following project:

FY 2024 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM, Project No. 14xxx

2. Bid Opening Date. Electronic bids must be submitted prior to 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2023, on the City’s PlanetBids System Vendor Portal, at which time or thereafter bids will be opened and made available online. Bids received after this time will be considered non-responsive. Prospective bidders must first register as a vendor and then bid on this project via the City’s PlanetBids System Vendor Portal website at www.san-clemente.org/vendorbids.

3. Project Scope of Work. Project includes pavement work, concrete repair including curb and gutter, curb ramp, sidewalk, driveway approach, utility work, striping, and other tasks as described in the specifications.

4. Contract Time: The work must be completed within 100 working days from the date specified in the written Notice to Proceed.

5. License and Registration Requirements.

5.1 State License. Pursuant to California Public Contract Code Section 3300, the City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid California contractor’s license for the following classification(s): Class “A”. Failure to possess the specified license(s) at the time of bid opening shall render the bid as non-responsive and shall act as a bar to award the contract to that non-responsive bidder.

5.2 Department of Industrial Relations Registration. Pursuant to California Labor Code Sections 1725.5 and 1771.1, all contractors and subcontractors that wish to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, or enter into a contract to perform public work must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations (“DIR”). No bid will be accepted nor any contract entered into without proof of the contractor’s and subcontractors’ current registration with the DIR to perform public work. If awarded a contract, the Bidder and its subcontractors, of any tier, shall maintain active registration with the DIR for the duration of the Project.

5.3 City Business License. Prior to the Notice

to Proceed for this contract, the Contractor shall possess a valid City of San Clemente business license.

6. Contract Documents. Bid documents, including instructions to bidders, bidder proposal form, and specifications (not including other documents incorporated by reference) may be downloaded, at no cost, from the City’s PlanetBids System Vendor Portal website at www.san-clemente.org/vendorbids. Bidders must first register as a vendor on the City of San Clemente PlanetBids system to view and download the Contract Documents, to be added to the prospective bidders list, and to receive addendum notifications when issued.

7. Bid Proposal and Security.

7.1 Bid Proposal Form. No bid will be received unless it is made on a proposal form furnished by the City. Bidders must complete line items information (PlanetBids Line Items Tab), and attach a scanned copy of the paper Bid Form (SECTION 00400), Bid Bond (SECTION 004100), Non-Collusion Declaration (SECTION 00420), Contractor Information and Experience Form (SECTION 00430), List of Subcontractors Form (SECTION 00440), Iran Contracting Act Certification (SECTION 00450), Public Works Contractor Registration Certification (SECTION 00460) completed and uploaded in the PlanetBids “Attachments” Tab.

7.2 Bid Security. Each bid proposal must be accompanied by security in the form of cash, certified check, cashier’s check, or bid bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total bid amount. Personal checks or company checks are not acceptable forms of bid security. All certified and cashier’s checks must be drawn on a responsible bank doing business in the United States and shall be made payable to THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE. Bid bonds must be issued by a surety company licensed to do business in the State of California and must be made payable to THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE. Bids not accompanied by the required bid security will be rejected.

For electronic submittal of bids, the bid security must be received at the City of San Clemente Public Works office, 910 Calle Negocio, Suite 100, San Clemente, CA 92673 no later than the bid opening date and time. The bid security must be submitted in a sealed envelope bearing the name and address of the bidder and the outside of the envelope must read as follows:

OFFICIAL BID SECURITY - DO NOT OPEN

Project Name: FY 2024 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Project Bid #: 14xxx

Bid Opening Date: 2pm Thursday, June 22, 2023

The bid security shall serve as a guarantee that the bidder will enter into a contract. Such guarantee shall be forfeited should the bidder to whom the contract is awarded fail to enter into the contract within 15 calendar days after written notification that the contract has been awarded to the successful bidder.

8. Prevailing Wage Requirements.

8.1 General. This project is subject to the prevailing wage requirements applicable to the locality in which the work is to be performed for each craft, classification or type of worker needed to perform the work, including employer payments for health and welfare, pension, vacation, apprenticeship and similar purposes.

8.2 Rates. Prevailing rates are available online at www.dir.ca.gov/DLSR and also available at the City of San Clemente Public Works Department Office at 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673. Each Contractor and Subcontractor must pay no less than the specified rates to all workers employed to work on the project. The schedule of per diem wages is based upon a working day of eight hours. The rate for holiday and overtime work must be at least time and onehalf.

8.3 Compliance Monitoring. Pursuant to California Labor Code Section 1771.4, all bidders are hereby notified that this project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the California Department of Industrial Relations. In bidding on this project, it shall be the Bidder’s sole responsibility to evaluate and include the cost of complying with all labor compliance requirements under this contract and applicable law in its bid.

9. Retention. Pursuant to the contract for this project, five percent (5%) of each progress payment will be retained as security for completion of the balance of the work. Substitution of appropriate securities in lieu of retention amounts from progress payments is permitted pursuant to California Public Contract Code Section 22300. Refer to the contract for further clarification.

10. Performance and Payment Bonds. The successful bidder, simultaneously with execution of the contract, will be required to provide Faithful Performance and Labor and Material Payment Bonds, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract amount. Bonds are to be secured from a surety that meets all of the State of California bonding requirements, as defined in Code of Civil Procedure Section 995.120, and is admitted by the State of California.

11. Pre-Bid Meeting. A pre-bid meeting will not be held for this bid solicitation. Refer to the Instructions to Bidders section on how to submit any pre-bid questions.

12. Brand Names and Substitution of “Or Equal” Materials. Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 3400(b), if the City has made any findings designating certain materials, products, things, or services by specific brand or trade name, such findings and the materials, products, things, or services and their specific brand or trade names will be set forth in the Special Conditions.

13. Instructions to Bidders. Additional and more detailed information is provided in the Instructions to Bidders, which should be carefully reviewed by all bidders before submitting a Bid Proposal.

14. Questions. All questions related to this bid solicitation must be submitted through the City’s PlanetBids System Vendor Portal per the information provided in the Instructions to Bidders.

Any other contact to City staff regarding this bid solicitation will be referred back to the PlanetBids system.

THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS, TO AWARD ALL OR ANY INDIVIDUAL PART/ITEM OF THE BID, AND TO WAIVE ANY INFORMALITIES, IRREGULARITIES OR TECHNICAL DEFECTS IN SUCH BIDS OR IN THE BIDDING PROCESS. ANY CONTRACT AWARDED WILL BE LET TO THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER AS DETERMINED FROM THE BASE BID ALONE.

Dated May 25, 2023.

City of San Clemente Public Works Department 910 Calle Negocio San Clemente, CA 92673

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case No. 30-2023-01324600-CU-PT-CJC

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner LEILANI MARIN WAI filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

Present Name

LEILANI MARIN WAI

Proposed Name

LEILANI NISHIHIRA JACKSON

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing

Date: 07/06/2023 Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: D100.

Room: Remote Appearance. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court’s website. To find your court’s website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/findmy-court.htm.)

A copy of this Order to Show Cause must be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in a newspaper of general circulation: printed in this county: San Clemente Times

Date: 05/09/2023

JUDGE LAYNE H. MELZER, Judge of the Superior Court

Published: San Clemente Times May 25, June 1, 8, 15, 2023

Complete your required legal or public notice advertising in the San Clemente Times.

EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com

CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 111

A Quarter-Century of Cosmic Vibrations

The Vissla Cosmic Creek Surf Festival at Salt Creek celebrates 25 years of groovy surfboards and good times

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The year is 1997. Steve Jobs has just returned to Apple. Hong Kong’s back under the Chinese thumb. Good Will Hunting is smashing the box office. The Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” is charting. And Vinnie De La Pena owns the point at Salt Creek. These are heady days.

In a less complicated corner of the world, a young Eric Diamond shows up for a meeting at Hoffman Fabrics, presumably to review swatches for some upcoming design work. Inevitably, he gets distracted by Flippy Hoffman’s extensive surfboard collection.

A light goes off. The first iteration of the Cosmic Creek Challenge is born.

“That first year, I borrowed boards from Flippy, some from Gary Wright’s collection, as well as a few others from friends,” Diamond says today. “Over the last 25 years, we’ve witnessed some pretty amazing moments and had a lot of fun.”

Fun has always been at the heart of the “Cosmic.” Born into a time where surfboards had been whittled down to thin, rocker-ed out “glass slippers,” Diamond had the idea to unearth old boards from the ’70s and ’80s, divide them up into a single-fin and twin-fin categories, and invite an eclectic pool of talent down to Salt Creek to “get weird.”

This weekend, the tradition continues

GROM OF THE WEEK

TAYLOR STACY

BY JAKE HOWARD

Standing out on the San Clemente Board Riders Club roster is no easy feat. With icons including Matt Archbold and Kolohe Andino grabbing the headlines, Taylor Stacy rose to the occasion last weekend and played a huge role in the club’s national title defense.

When asked to describe Stacy’s surfing at the U.S. Board Riders National Championship at Lowers, Club Vice President Frankie D’Andrea was succinct with his description: “Out of body all weekend.”

“There are very few surfers in the world that can do what you did. We believe in you and your talents and can’t wait to see what

with the Vissla Cosmic Creek Surf Festival. Taking place at Salt Creek in Dana Point on Saturday, June 3, and Sunday, June 4, the event is part surf contest, part free concert and part raging beach party. Really, nothing screams the start of summer like the Vissla Cosmic Creek Surf Festival.

As the surf contest portion goes, the event will feature five divisions: Locals, Creators & Innovators, Pros, Women’s, and a Body Surf Expression Session presented by DaFin.

In the Pros and Locals divisions, entrants will draw cards prior to their heat to determine the order in which they will select the board they will ride. Unlike just about any other surf contest, at the Cosmic, Vissla will supply original ’70s and ’80s single- and twin-fin options for competitors to ride.

Meanwhile, the Creators & Innovators division features shapers and surf stars alike riding self-shaped boards inspired by ’70s- and ’80s-era equipment.

A passionate surfboard collector and ardent supporter of surfboard shaping, Vissla founder Paul Naude and his team have done an incredible job over the years ensuring that the history and heritage of these surfboard designs continue to be passed down to the next generation.

On Saturday afternoon, be sure to snag

you do next,” added head coach Benji Severson.

A proud graduate of San Clemente High’s Class of 2022, Stacy now attends Saddleback College, where she’s a distinguished member of both the surf and soccer programs.

Stacy showed up in the Grom of the Week column some years ago, so now that she’s in college, she’s aging out of this space. However, we wanted to give her one more shout- out for her inspired—and inspiring— performance at the U.S. Board Riders National Championship.

a spot on the grassy hill above Salt Creek for some seriously epic live music. Kicking things off at 5 p.m. will be Repeater, followed by The Alive.

The headlining act of the evening is Frankie & The Witch Fingers, who are scheduled for 6:45. As someone who’s currently listening to them on Spotify while writing this, you’re not going to want to miss this show. It’s a top-shelf lineup.

Not only bringing the good times, the Vissla Cosmic Creek Surf Festival is planting its flag in the ground when it comes to the environment.

The event has been designated plastic-free, and everyone’s encouraged to bring their reusable water bottles. There will be refilling stations at the beach, and breakfast and lunch are being provided by Young’s Beach Shack. Other local vendors will also be on hand.

“From Kelly Slater, to Jackson Browne, Rob Machado, Thomas Campbell, Tom

Curren, Buttons, Ulu Boy and so many more, the Cosmic, as always, attracted really good surfers that are into these older designs,” Diamond says. “Donavon (Frankenreiter) played a big part in those early years.”

“I’m so excited that we get to celebrate 25 years of the Cosmic and that Vissla fully backs the vision and embraces how important this event is to our local community, as well as how unique it really is in the surf world,” he adds.

See you at Salt Creek this weekend! SC

Jake Howard is a local surfer and freelance writer who lives in San Clemente. A former editor at Surfer magazine, The Surfer’s Journal and ESPN, today he writes for several publications, including Picket Fence Media, Surfline and the World Surf League. He also works with philanthropic organizations such as the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center and the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation.

SURF FORECAST

Water Temperature: 61-63 Degrees

Water Visibility:

6-8’’

Thursday: Easing S swell shows most size in the morning, with waist to chest high waves, (3-4’) at many spots, while best breaks hit head high, (5’). The surf will slowly taper off as the day goes on. Westerly winds through the day, light in the morning, then rising to low-end moderate levels during the afternoon.

We can’t wait to see where she goes from here. SC

If you have a candidate for Grom of the Week, we want to know. Send an email to jakehoward1@gmail.com.

Outlook: Fading S swell on Friday, for mainly thigh to stomach high waves, (2-3’+). Surf gradually picks up on Saturday as a fresh round of S swell and some secondary SW swell move in. By Sunday that swell mix has most spots back in waist to chest high waves, (3-4’), while top exposures are chest high to a foot overhead, (4-6’). For Friday and the weekend, light/ variable to light offshore winds in the early mornings, shift to a light+/locally moderate WSW sea breeze by the afternoons.

(From left) Stacked with talent, the 2022 Vissla Cosmic Creek Surf Festival finalists included Tyler Warren, Wilem Banks, Chris Ward, Simon Hedrick, Cliff Kapono and Ian Gottron. Photo: Courtesy of Paul Naude/Vissla

Taylor Stacy (second from left with the Billabong logo on her board). Photo: Courtesy of Shawn Parkin